Geelong groups pledge collective action

NEARLY two dozen Geelong employers and community groups have collectively declared their opposition to family violence.

The 23 local organisations have signed a Statement of Commitment acknowledging family violence is unacceptable and, as leaders within the Greater Geelong community, they will promote gender equity, respectful relationships and share resources to develop their organisations and workforces.

The City of Greater Geelong is co-ordinating conversations between signatories about resource sharing and a schedule of activities for 2018, which will encourage other organisations to sign the Statement of Commitment.

The signatories are:

• Barwon Area Integrated Family Violence Committee
• Barwon Child, Youth and Family
• Barwon Community Legal Service
• Barwon Health
• Barwon Water
• Bellarine Community Health
• Bethany Community Support Inc
• City of Greater Geelong
• Deakin University
• Diversitat
• G21 – Geelong Region Alliance
• Gateways Support Services
• Geelong Chamber of Commerce
• Geelong Football Club
• Geelong Regional Library Corporation
• Give Where you Live Foundation
• Leisure Networks
• Salvo Connect Barwon
• The Gordon
• The Sexual Assault and Family Violence Centre
• Victoria Police
• Wathaurong Aboriginal Co-operative Ltd, and • Worksafe

“Many City activities and staff have the ability to directly or indirectly influence, raise awareness and create positive action and outcomes in relation to family violence,” City of Greater Geelong chief executive officer Kelvin Spiller said.

“We are proud to be collaborating with so many like-minded organisations to help prevent violence in our families, and those families we serve or interact with across our community.”

The signing took place at the Geelong Conference Centre on Thursday, and included an address from VicHealth chief executive officer Jerril Rechter.

Individuals who are experiencing family violence are encouraged to call The Sexual Assault and Family Violence Centre (formerly Barwon CASA/Minerva Community Services) on 5222 4318, 1800 Respect on 1800 737 732 or Safe Steps Family Violence Response Centre (freecall) on 1800 015 188.